Office of the Chief

The leadership of the Palestine Police Department is composed of a Chief of Police and is supported by one Administrative Assistant.

The administration's role is to lead the agency, through implementation of policy and procedures that meets best practices, to manage a budget in excess of $4 million dollars, and to ensure that the Palestine Police Department's and City of Palestine's Mission, Vision and Values are upheld throughout the organization, ensuring quality and professionalism that is expected from our community.

A Letter from the Chief of Police:

Chief of Police Mark HarcrowI am honored to serve as the Chief of Police for the Palestine Police Department.  Our department is dedicated to providing the highest level of professional service to our community.  We are committed to building strong relationships with our citizens, and to working together to make Palestine a safe and secure place to live, work, and visit. Our officers are well-trained and highly skilled, and they work hard every day to protect and serve our community.  We value diversity, and we strive to be inclusive and responsive to the needs of all of our residents.

We are also committed to transparency and accountability, and we welcome your input and feedback.  If you have any questions, concerns, or suggestions, please don't hesitate to contact us.

Thank you for entrusting us with the safety and security of our great community.

Sincerely,
Mark Harcrow

Biography

Chief Mark Harcrow was born and raised in Palestine, Texas. He is a graduate of Palestine High School and holds a Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice degree from the University of Texas at Arlington. Chief Harcrow also holds a Master Peace Officer license with the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement. Chief Harcrow joined the Palestine Police Department in 2009. During his career with PPD, Chief Harcrow has served as a Patrol Officer, Detective, Corporal, Sergeant, Captain and Assistant Chief, prior to being appointed as Interim Chief of Police in October of 2019. Chief Harcrow was appointed permanent Chief of Police in May of 2020.

Administrative Assistant to the Chief of Police, Donna Thornell

Donna Thornell

Administrative Assistant to the Chief Of Police

Donna Thornell has served as the Admin. Assistant to the Chief since September of 2004. She is responsible for clerical duties, including scheduling, budgetary assistance, and the processing of open records requests which come through the City Secretary's Office.

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